The first SAS hero to be killed in action during the current Iraq war is to receive Britain’s second highest gallantry award.

Astonishingly, news of the posthumous award of the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross to Sgt Jonathan Hollingsworth was suppressed by a defence ministry obsessed with keeping details of operations.

It is unknown if even Sgt Hollingsworth’s closest family will be given the citation for his bravery when they receive the honour from the Queen this autumn.

Now furious former comrades claim the hero has been cheated of the public respect due to him.

One said: “This is an absolute disgrace. This man died for his country and his courage should be publicly acknowledged.

“There’s no risk to security in telling the British people that one of our finest soldiers is to be posthumously decorated for giving his life to make Iraq a better place.”    www.mirror.co.uk/news/topstories/2007/08/08/hidden-sas-hero-outrage-89520-19586821/